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Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso

Easy Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso

This Easy Mexican Chicken and Rice with Queso is a comforting, customizable, and quick-to-prepare dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Diced Chicken Substitute with tofu or beans for vegetarian options.
For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup Long-Grain Rice Substitute with brown rice; adjust cooking time.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Can be swapped with vegetable broth for vegetarian version.
For the Flavor
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies Replace with fresh tomatoes for less acidity.
  • 1 medium Onion Shallots can be used for a lighter taste.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Substitutes: zucchini or corn.
For the Creaminess
  • 1 cup Queso Cheese Substitute with mozzarella or dairy-free cheese for vegan version.
For the Freshness
  • 2 tablespoons Lime Juice Use fresh limes for best flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro Replace with parsley if desired.

Equipment

  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed, then toss in the diced onions, minced garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until tender and fragrant.
  3. Once softened, add long-grain rice and stir for a minute to coat. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid and becomes tender.
  4. After the rice is cooked, gently fold in the reserved chicken and diced queso cheese. Stir until the cheese melts, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and drizzle fresh lime juice over the dish. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro.
  6. Spoon the dish into bowls and top with avocado slices, sour cream, or crumbled cotija cheese. Serve with warm corn tortillas.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to bulk up the dish with additional vegetables such as zucchini or corn.

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